A disputed island in the Bay of Bengal has disappeared. The tiny island, claimed for years by both India and Bangladesh, is now completely under water according to recent satellite images.
Rising seas, a result of global warming say scientists, have completely covered the island that rose no more than six feet above sea level and was never settled.
Lying scientists, you say? No such thing as global warming, you say? High tide, you say? Suit yourself. Whatever. The island is still gone.
Personally, I’m inclined to believe that climate change can cause and is causing rising seas. I don’t care if you call it global warming or not. I don’t care if it’s man-made or not. It’s happening, and arguing about whose fault it is or what to call it isn’t going to change anything.
I’ve wondered for years what the doubters are going to say to coastal dwellers when their villages and cities are being lapped by rising water. I’ve wondered if they’ll still be standing there waving signs and screaming “Hoax!” while the water swirls around their knees. I’m wondering if they’ll ever just shut up, roll up their sleeves, and help.